Looking to give your Thanksgiving leftovers a delicious twist? In this blog post, we’ll cover 5 creative ways to reinvent those holiday classics into something new and exciting. 

Turkey & Stuffing Arancini

Turn your leftover turkey and stuffing into crispy arancini. Mix risotto or plain rice with your stuffing, add shredded turkey, and a bit of mozzarella in the center. Roll into balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until golden brown. Serve with marinara sauce for a perfect Italian twist on leftovers!

Cranberry Turkey Crostini

Transform your leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into elegant crostini. Toast slices of Italian bread (like ciabatta or baguette), then top with a layer of creamy ricotta cheese, shredded turkey, and a drizzle of cranberry sauce. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil for a touch of Italian flair. Perfect as a next-day appetizer.

Turkey Bolognese

Give your leftover turkey a makeover by turning it into a rich turkey Bolognese sauce. Shred the turkey and simmer it in a pot with diced tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and a splash of red wine. Toss it with some pasta for a hearty, comforting meal.

Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms

Transform your stuffing into a mouthwatering appetizer! Remove the stems from large button mushrooms, spoon in your leftover stuffing, and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly for a fun, bite-sized treat that’s sure to impress.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

If you’ve got leftover mashed sweet potatoes, turn them into gnocchi! Mix mashed sweet potatoes with flour, egg, and a pinch of salt to form a dough. Roll into small gnocchi shapes and cook them in boiling water until they float. Serve with a simple brown butter and sage sauce for an Italian-inspired dish that’s packed with fall flavors.

Tips to Use Up Leftovers

Not feeling up to creating a new recipe with your leftovers? No problem! There are simple and flavorful ways to elevate what’s already in your fridge. One of the easiest methods is to add fresh herbs. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can transform the taste of mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables, giving them a burst of flavor.

Another quick fix? Top your leftovers with a fried egg. Whether it’s stuffing, veggies, or even pasta, adding an egg can turn your leftovers into a satisfying, effortless meal.

You don’t need to eat everything at once. Utilize your freezer for items like turkey, stock, or mashed potatoes—portion them out so you can enjoy those Thanksgiving flavors later.

With these creative ideas, your Thanksgiving leftovers will feel like entirely new dishes, bringing fresh flavors to the table while reducing waste. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and simple like crostini or ready to get a little more adventurous with arancini, there’s a delicious way to repurpose every part of your holiday meal.